A major enforcement operation targeting illegal delivery drivers in Plymouth has drawn support from the UK’s Minister for Border Security and Asylum, who told Plymouth Plus the government is stepping up efforts to combat immigration crime across the country.
This week, officers from Immigration Enforcement alongside Devon and Cornwall Police carried out a joint operation across Mutley Plain and Embankment Road. The result was two arrests on suspicion of immigration offences and the seizure of 29 illegal e-bikes, e-scooters and mopeds.
Plymouth Plus can reveal that the Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Dame Angela Eagle, has backed the operation and promised more action to come as part of a tough crackdown on illegal working. Dame Angela told Plymouth Plus:
“Illegal working undermines honest employers, undercuts local wages, and fuels the criminal industry of immigration crime. We are determined to clamp down on that illegal activity in every sector where it occurs, including delivery drivers.
“Since coming to power, enforcement action nationwide has increased, with raids, arrests and fines all up by around 50% on the previous twelve months, and we will be stepping up that action further in the year ahead.”
The large-scale operation was conducted by officers from the Roads Policing Unit, Central Neighbourhood and Neighbourhood Support Teams from both Plymouth and Exeter. It focused on identifying e-bikes that were either illegal under current law or being used in breach of immigration rules.
A total of 29 vehicles were seized, including 20 e-bikes, 2 e-scooters, and 2 traditional scooters, after being found in breach of road traffic laws or linked to suspected illegal working.
Devon and Cornwall Police said the operation followed a rise in public concerns about unregulated delivery riders and unsafe vehicles operating across the city.
Inspector Emma Brimicombe from the Plymouth Central Neighbourhood Team said:
“The safety of all road users is our priority. With the growing use of high-powered e-bikes, it’s essential that riders understand the legal requirements and the potential risks involved. Operations like this help ensure compliance and protect the public.”
The two men arrested remain under investigation by the Home Office and further enforcement activity is expected in the weeks ahead.
The government confirmed that bikes found to be above legal limits must be treated as motor vehicles which require a driving licence, registration, insurance and a helmet. The rules also state that legal e-bikes must have working pedals, an electric motor limited to 250 watts and must cut off assistance once the rider hits 15.5 miles per hour.
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The Home Office has further operations planned in Plymouth and other towns and cities as the crackdown on illegal working continues.
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